Bicycling Safety Tips

Safety is a major concern of both existing and potential bicyclists. For those who ride, safety is typically an on-going concern or even a distraction. For those who do not ride, it is one of the most compelling reasons not to ride. Nationwide, the total number of reported
cyclist fatalities has dropped dramatically since 1994, with 802 fatalities reported in 1994 and 725 fatalities reported in 2004. In comparison, total traffic fatalities have increased by 5 percent over this ten year period.

On-Street Biking - Sharing the Road

Bikes must be driven like other vehicles if they are to be taken seriously by motorists. cyclists are required by law to follow all California traffic laws.

Be Careful at Intersections

Most accidents happen at intersections. proceed with care. Avoid being in a turn-only lane if you want to go straight through an intersection. In narrow lanes or slow traffic, it may be safer to take the whole lane.

Use Hand Signals

Signal all turns and stops ahead of time. Look over your shoulder for any traffic, then make your intended move only when iti s safe to do so.

Keep Both Hands Ready to Brake

You may not stop in time if you brake one-handed. Allow extra distance for stopping in the rain, since brakes are less efficient when wet.

Lock Your Bike

Lock the frame and rear wheel of your bike to a bicycle rack. If you have a quick release, lock the front wheel also. Do not lock your bike to trees.

Confirm that you are seen. Establish eye contact with motorists to insure that they know you are on the road. Look over your shoulder regularly or use a mirror to scan the road behind. Although bicycles have an
equal right on the road, be prepared to maneuver for safety.

Beware of Car Doors

Be wary of parked cars. Motorists can unexpectedly open doors. Be particularly careful if you see a motorist in the car. Ride in a straight line at least three feet away from parked cars.

Tips for Multi-Use Paths

Cyclists: sound your bell or call out a warning when approaching others, then pass safely on the left. Skaters: follow travel rules as per bicyclists. Do not perform trick-skating.

Stay on the Path

Ride only on designated paths to protect parks, natural areas and yourself. Riding off a designated pathway is dangerous and prohibited in City of Riverside parks.

Be Careful at Crossings

Look both ways. Cyclists: yield to through traffic at intersections; pedestrians have the right of way. Pedestrians: exercise caution. Be aware of stopping limitations of cyclists and skaters.

Pedestrian Right-of-Way

Cyclists and in-line skaters must yield to pedestrians. Pedestrians always have the right-of-way.

Keep to the Right

All path users must keep to the right except when passing or turning left. Pedestrians: move to the right when someone is passing. Move off the path when stopping. Never block the path.

Use Designated Path

Where designated, cyclists and skaters must ride on the specified path. Don't ride on a pedestrian path. Look both ways at crossings. Cyclists: yield to through traffic at intersections; pedestrians have the right of way. Pedestrians: exercise caution.